TRURO, NOVA SCOTIA--(Marketwired - April 7, 2014) - More than 400 CUPE bus drivers, custodians and tradespeople at the Chignecto Central Regional School Board have ratified a settlement in their contract talks.

CUPE National Representative Betty Jean Sutherland says, "Local 3890 and the Board, with the assistance of mediator Bruce Outhouse, have agreed to language on the single outstanding issue, which was contracting out."

Sutherland says the employees ratified the deal by 88% in a vote late last week.

"It's also worth noting that this settlement was freely negotiated by both parties, with no threat of legislation hanging over our heads. This is the way collective bargaining is supposed to happen, without interference from a provincial government that seems intent on tilting the balance in favour of employers," says Sutherland.

Local 3890 President Ron Davis says, "We are pleased with the outcome of this mediation. I'd like to thank Local 3890 members for their strong support and patience as we worked to resolve the thorny issue of contracting out."